How can I protect myself from tax-related identity theft?

During tax season, you can protect yourself from tax-related identity theft by taking the following steps:

1. Secure Your Personal Information: Safeguard your Social Security number, financial documents, and any other sensitive information to prevent unauthorized access.

2. File Early: File your tax return as early as possible to reduce the chances of someone fraudulently filing on your behalf.

3. Use a Secure Internet Connection: When filing your taxes online, make sure you use a secure internet connection to prevent hackers from intercepting your data.

4. Beware of Phishing Scams: Be cautious of emails or messages claiming to be from the IRS asking for personal information. The IRS will not contact you via email for such information.

5. Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for any suspicious activity that could indicate identity theft.

6. Use Strong Passwords: Ensure your tax preparation software accounts and online accounts have strong, unique passwords to prevent unauthorized access.

7. Shred Old Documents: Dispose of old tax documents and financial statements by shredding them to prevent them from being stolen and used for identity theft.

By following these steps and staying vigilant, you can protect yourself from tax-related identity theft during tax season.